Best
Value Colleges in Charleston in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Charleston, SC, combines management fundamentals with the region's growing tourism, healthcare, and technology industries. Courses typically include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, organizational behavior, business law, and strategic management. Popular options include the College of Charleston, Charleston Southern University, and The Citadel, which offer business-related study. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations manager, or business consultant, depending on experience and specialization.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Charleston, SC offers opportunities to explore human behavior, mental processes, and research. Typical coursework includes introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. Popular local options include the College of Charleston and The Citadel, both offering psychology programs. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral technician, human resources assistant, market researcher, or community outreach coordinator. Clinical counseling careers usually require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Charleston, SC, combines programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular local options include the College of Charleston, The Citadel, and Charleston Southern University. Typical coursework emphasizes teamwork and projects. Graduates become software or web developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity analysts, database administrators, or data analysts, working in technology, government, healthcare, and finance. Students learn to design, test, and maintain software, while exploring computer networks and operating systems.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Charleston, South Carolina can prepare students for professions. Local options include the College of Charleston, which offers clinical counseling study, and Charleston Southern University, with a clinical mental health counseling program. Typical coursework covers counseling theories, ethics, assessment, human development, multicultural practice, group counseling, and supervised fieldwork. Graduates commonly pursue roles as licensed professional counselor candidates, school counselors, substance use counselors, or behavioral health clinicians in agencies, schools, clinics, and community organizations.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Charleston, South Carolina, offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to bachelor's and advanced degrees. Typical coursework includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and clinical rotations in hospitals and community settings. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, public health nurses, or nurse educators, depending on their degree and licensure. Popular options include the Medical University of South Carolina, Trident Technical College, and Charleston Southern University, which offers nursing programs.

Best Colleges in Charleston, SC Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 31,870.0, compared with 36,116.8 at top-10% schools, making the top-10% figure higher.
• An average of 97.8% of students receive financial aid, versus 55.75% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 55.75%.
• Schools receive an average of 9,929.5 applicants; the average among top-10% schools is substantially higher at 23,574.0. The median number of male applicants is 2,054.0, compared with 1,897.5 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,133.33 and the average ACT score is 23.67.
• The average number of enrolled students is 4,578.4. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 377.0 and 569.25, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 62.5%, compared with 72.3% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 62.5% for men and 59.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 1 offers associate's degrees, 5 offer bachelor's degrees, 5 offer master's degrees, and 3 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 5 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, consider how its cost and financial aid may affect affordability, and compare admissions figures and test-score averages with your own circumstances. Graduation rates may also help inform your decision; in these figures, top-10% schools have a higher average graduation rate but also a higher median cost and a lower average percentage of students receiving aid.

How much does studying at a college in Charleston, SC cost?

The average total cost of studying in Charleston, SC, is $30,429.20. For a prospective student, that figure offers a useful starting point for planning, though your actual bill will depend on your college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. The College of Charleston and Charleston Southern University are well-known local options to compare.

Reported average expense figures provide another planning reference, but they do not reconcile arithmetically with the stated total. Treat them as separate estimates rather than a complete itemized budget. Ask each school for a current cost-of-attendance breakdown, then subtract grants or scholarships to estimate what you may actually pay.

• Average tuition and fees: $19,658.40.
• Average room and board: $12,934.00.
• Average books and supplies: $3,870.00.
• Average total cost of studying: $30,429.20.

Exploring aid opportunities and comparing commuting with housing costs early can help you feel confident choosing a path that fits your goals as you plan ahead.

How long does it take to finish college in Charleston, SC?

At Charleston's colleges, a bachelor's degree usually takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at Trident Technical College takes about two. At the College of Charleston, Charleston Southern University, or The Citadel, your timeline depends on your major, course load, and whether classes fit your schedule. Part-time study, changing majors, or pausing enrollment can add time, so planning with an academic adviser can make the path manageable.

Many students can finish sooner by bringing in AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits, transferring college coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program. Ask each school how credits apply to your degree before enrolling; a few accepted courses can save time and tuition.

Graduation figures offer context: the average graduation rate is 62.5%, compared with 72.3% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 60.75% for men and 54.75% for women, highlighting the value of support and progress.

Salary

After graduating from college in Charleston, SC, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $46,783. Graduates of schools ranked in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $66,106, suggesting that attending a higher-performing school may correspond with stronger earning potential.

Your own salary will depend on your field, experience, and career path. Charleston students considering the College of Charleston, Charleston Southern University, or the Medical University of South Carolina can compare programs and career opportunities as they plan for life after graduation. Reaching a rewarding salary is absolutely within reach, especially when you pair your degree with relevant experience and skills.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Charleston?

Charleston, South Carolina, is commonly described as having four universities in the area: the College of Charleston, The Citadel, the Medical University of South Carolina, and Charleston Southern University. The exact count depends on what you include and whether you mean the city limits; Charleston Southern is in neighboring North Charleston. Students have several distinct campus environments to explore.

What is the largest university in Charleston?

The College of Charleston is generally the largest university located in Charleston by student enrollment. Its central campus and broad range of academic programs make it a prominent choice for students seeking a traditional university experience in the city. Enrollment figures can change from year to year, so check the college's latest published data if you need an exact comparison.

How many universities are there in Charleston?

Using the common area-wide count, the answer is four. That figure includes Charleston Southern University in North Charleston, so a count limited strictly to Charleston's municipal boundaries may differ. For a prospective student, it's useful to compare schools across the wider Charleston area, since nearby campuses can still offer access to the region's culture and opportunities.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Charleston, SC Ranking in 2026-2027

College of Charleston enrolls 11,726 students and combines a sizable campus community with study in historic Charleston, South Carolina. Its 66% graduation rate and 60% acceptance rate offer context as you compare admission and completion outcomes. The listed total cost is $37,836, while median alumni salary is $43,278. For a student based in Charleston, studying here can mean pursuing a degree within the city, with routines and opportunities close to home. Consider costs alongside your intended major and financial aid.

Medical University of South Carolina serves 3,246 enrolled students and offers a health-focused university setting in Charleston. Its total cost is $29,030, and median alumni salary is $75,251. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available, so consult university admissions information. For a Charleston resident seeking a degree, studying at MUSC keeps campus life in the city. Its medical identity may appeal to students exploring health-related education and careers, while costs and program fit deserve review as you plan your studies.

The Citadel Military College of South Carolina enrolls 3,933 students and reports a 75% graduation rate with a 23% acceptance rate. Its total cost is $33,538, and median alumni salary is $52,388. The college's military-college identity distinguishes its environment in Charleston, SC. For a local student, studying here offers a degree path within the Charleston area; consider whether its distinctive structure suits your goals. Compare selectivity, completion, affordability, and alumni outcomes with nearby colleges before applying, while planning your degree.

Charleston Southern University enrolls 3,832 students, with a 47% graduation rate and a 96% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost is $31,870, and median alumni salary is $46,783. Located in the Charleston area, the university offers local students a nearby option for earning a degree without leaving the region. Use the acceptance and graduation figures as part of your comparison, and investigate programs, financial aid, and commuting needs to see whether this campus and its costs fit your degree plans.

American College of the Building Arts enrolls 155 students, making it the smallest institution in this comparison. Its graduation rate is 62%, acceptance rate is 44%, total cost is $19,872, and median alumni salary is $38,788. Based in Charleston, SC, the college provides a local setting for students interested in building arts education. Its compact enrollment may appeal if you prefer a smaller college community. Compare the cost and outcomes with your goals, program interests, and financial aid options.